Intermediate Curriculum

Chittamatra Philosophical Tradition: Appearances are Mere Mind

The reason why it is important to understand the Chittamatra system is because, first of all, one will not be able to understand the view of Shentong Madhyamaka if one does not properly understand the Chittamatra view. Secondly, when one is learning the view of mahamudra that is explained in the Vajrayana, if one does not properly understand the Chittamatra view, one will have a difficult time understanding mahamudra. At the time of mahamudra pointing-out instructions on the basis of appearances, if one does not understand the Chittamatra view, one might be given the pointing-out instructions on the basis of appearances, but actually receiving that pointing out instruction in one’s own mind will be very difficult.

Madhyamaka Philosophical Tradition: Not Even a Middle

A systematic presentation of the philosophical tenets of the Madhyamaka (“Middle Way”) Tradition of the Mahayana. Based on sections from Jamgon Kongtrul’s Treasury of Knowledge.

Paths and Bhumis: The Path to Enlightenment

A systematic presentation of the stages of the path of the Bodhisattva, as well as of the Hearer Arhat (Shravaka Arhat) and Solitary Buddha (Pratyekabuddha), based on Jamgon Kongtrul’s Treasury of Knowledge (Shey-ja-dzer) and Asanga’s Ornament of Clear Realization (Abhisamayalankara).

Buddha Nature: Luminous Heart of the Tathagata

A systematic presentation of the teachings of the Buddha Nature tradition based on Maitreya’s Uttaratantra and its commentary by Jamgon Kongtrul.

Intermediate Curriculum—Debate

Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche founded Nitartha Institute in 1996, under the guidance of Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche and Khenpo Tsültrim Gyamtso Rinpoche. The parent organization is Nitartha International, an educational organization dedicated to the preservation of Tibet’s heritage of religious and philosophical texts. Though the focus of our curriculum is the Kagyü and Nyingma understanding of the Dharma, the Institute upholds the importance of non-sectarianism and appreciation of the many forms of Buddhism. Students of any background are welcome and encouraged to attend—the Institute is open to all who are interested in deepening their study and practice of Buddhism.